Dream team: Andy Butler

Speaking to our matchday programme earlier this season, Andy Butler picks his all-time ‘World XI’, while we also hear about quite a few players who didn’t quite make it.

The club captain’s star-studded line-up incorporates world-class players from a number of eras in his lifetime, including a special mention for a certain former teammate…

MANAGER: Sir Alex FergusonAB: “The way he conducted himself during his time in charge of Manchester United, and the amount of trophies he’s put in their cabinet is remarkable. He left behind an incredible legacy too.”

FORMATION: 4-2-3-1

GK: Peter SchmeichelAB: “For a goalkeeper, the main thing you look for is presence and leadership that will give the rest of the team confidence. Schmeichel had that in abundance!”

RB: CafuAB: “I’m sure he gets into most World XI’s. One of the best ever in his position, and he could run all day.”

CB: Des WalkerAB: “As a centre back, Des Walker was my main idol growing up as a youngster. He was a quick player, and no-nonsense!”

CB: Tony AdamsAB: “Obviously your centre halves are another position you look at for leadership (much like ‘keeper), and Adams’ ability, as well as leadership skills were second to none.”

LB: Roberto CarlosAB: “A rare kind of full-back. Roberto Carlos could do everything, and from an entertainment perspective, he scored some thunderbolts!”

DM: N’Golo KantéAB: “One of the world’s best in more recent times. He’s been crucial for Chelsea and Leicester City helping them win the league. His energy is relentless!”

DM: Roy KeaneAB: “There’s a theme of leaders in this team, and Keane was another one. He was also very good at organising teams, which is an underrated attribute in the game.”

AM: James CoppingerAB: “I’ll put him in the number 10 role, because if you’ve played on the same team as him, you understand what he brings. Always a calm head and Mr. Reliable!”

RW: Lionel MessiAB: “In my opinion, he is the best player in the world. No one has ever shown the ability on the ball that he shows. Outstanding.”

ST: RonaldoAB: “Another player who blew us all away in his prime. He was an amazing goal-scorer first and foremost, who performed at the highest level, and had lightning quick feet despite his size.”

LW: Cristiano RonaldoAB: “You can’t have one without the other! He is probably the most complete player that the game has ever seen, and he’s won everything.”

THREE WHO MISSED OUT:

ST: RonaldinhoAB: “He had to at least get a mention for me. Despite all the talent I’ve named he had unbelievable skills that could mesmerise any defender!”

CB: Vincent KompanyAB: “One of the centre halves that maybe goes under the radar for being one of the world’s best in his prime. He was so important to a rampant Man City side.”

ST: RomárioAB: “The younger lot certainly won’t remember him, but his goal-scoring record for both all his clubs, and Brazil, speaks for itself really.”